"I mean let's be clear here, the procedure alters the human germline. Whereas most Genetically Modified crops for commercial use are illegal they are now wanting to make legal genetically modified children.

"The free agents used in the procedure are illegal for private use because of their toxicity. They can cause serious or fatal defects there's a high risk of cancer or tumours. We have no idea what it would do for future generation. There are such health and safety risks that this simply isn't viable option."

Last year, the UK became the first country in the world to legalise mitochondrial replacement after MPs and peers voted to allow it.

Asked for his message to the fertility regulator Christian bioethics campaigner James Mildred said: "What were you thinking?

"Why do you think it's ok to breeze past this ethical line in the sand again and again and again.

"Scientists and the evidence that we do have points to the fact that this new technique is reckless and dangerous and will have untold consequences.

"Eminent scientists have warned that a three parent baby will have to be monitored their entire life to make sure that they are healthy, to make sure that they are ok.